Neo-classicism

Instead of the Baroque or Rococo styles, artists of the early 19th century decided to turn back to the classic forms of art to express courage, sacrifice, and love of the country. They wanted to bring back the Greek and Roman art characteristics, balancing compositions, harmonious contour lines, and noble gestures and expressions. While doing such, some added propaganda into their work, which means putting symbols and ideas into the work to spread to the public. I think this is genius. It is a sneaky way to sell an idea, yet no one can prove the manipulation. One artist who was particularly clever with propaganda was Jacques-Louis David. One piece in particular that thrived with propaganda was Napoleon in his Studies. This shows many things, a candle and early hour of the morning to suggest he works non-stop, vital documents beside him to show he is indeed at work, and his straight posture to signify strength.
This type of art help importance with the American and French revolutions, for the government adopted Neo-classicism as their form of art. Another famous piece by David was called Oath of the Horatti. While I do like the first painting shown better, I enjoy the symmetry of the composition. The textures and very popping as well as the positive and negative space. I do not love how the picture looks like a "still moment", like these people posed for it, yet believe it adds to the meaning of this piece. A man's sons, on the left, swear to protect and follow him and the women, to the right, weep. The father in the middle, symbolizes the government as the sons symbolize the citizens and the women show their care. The subjects of these pieces are not my choice as well, for I do not particularly enjoy politics and the government's manipulation, it is indeed amazing that they could manipulate. I do like the texture of these works, though.